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YWCA CEO to retire

After working as the CEO of YWCA Northcentral Pennsylvania since 2001, Diane Glenwright will be retiring in October.

Originally she took the position of interim executive director that year, but had no idea that she would find passion in helping women in domestic violence and homelessness situations.

“It just clicked,” Glenwright said.

Previously she worked in finance and was asked to fill in at the non-profit until a new CEO was found. Little did she know that the new leader would be her for the next 16 years.

Before entering the role, she said she was ignorant about how domestic violence and sexual harassment can lead to homelessness. Many women cope with the emotional scarring by turning to drugs and alcohol, which can affect their entire life.

“It is inspiring to see when those ladies excel,” she said.

Seeing the organization’s caseworkers help struggling women and achieving the mission of the YWCA to eliminate racism and empower women has been fulfilling, Glenwright said.

“I have a passion for the mission,” she said. “You could see it fundamentally in the people who work here.”

During her time she has seen the YWCA grow in its services to expand its reach for those in need.

In 2003 Liberty House, a homeless shelter for women and children, started in order to address that population in the area. Glenwright said it was a key and pivotal moment for the organization.

The staff who work at the shelter and with Wise Options, a 24-hour emergency shelter, create a dynamic, participant-centered environment, she said.

The Boutique, a thrift shop at the YWCA headquarters at 815 W. Fourth St., started in 2013 as a way to increase revenue and help those they serve.

“They can help women and children that live and are served here,” she said. “The ladies who stay here can get their clothes here.”

Since she began leading the organization, one of the main challenges has been finding funding.

Glenwright and her staff have been trying to do more with less in order to fund the work, she said.

As her time with the organization comes to an end, the board of directors is in the process of finding a new CEO who will begin in October.

“I am sure they will find someone to take (the YWCA) to the next level,” she said. “I am excited to see what happens next.”

In retirement, she plans to volunteer at The Boutique, read, garden and take classes to learn how to paint and woodwork.

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